Kam Abbott / CC
The province is planning to penalize BC Ferries when it cancels “core-service” sailings due to staffing shortages after a summer of travel chaos for passengers. A statement from the Ministry of Transportation says details of the plan to improve the reliability of the ferry service will be confirmed next spring. Transportation Minister Rob Fleming says he knows last summer was frustrating for travellers and a challenge for BC Ferries due to staffing and mechanical issues. The statement says the province has renewed its contract with the ferry service for another four-year term ending in March 2028, and the new agreement adds more than 1,400 round-trip sailings each year as “core services.” It says the sailings on 13 minor routes were previously designated as discretionary, and the change will improve service for smaller, ferry-dependent communities. Fleming says the provision for penalties over missed core sailings is aimed at holding the company accountable for the services it is contracted to provide.
